The Home Machinist!

Hello, I set up a test bar in my lathe. I can get it to run true between a chuck and live center; however, once I lock the tailstock in place, the piece no longer runs true. When locking the tailstock, you can see the tailstock move laterally. This is very frustrating! I appreciate any help anyone h...

I am looking for suggestions of simple oscillating single cylinder steam engines with plans as a beginner shop project. I've looked across the internet and there are several examples, but has anyone on the board actually built one of these models? Any tips?

Thanks,

Marty

I would like to thank everyone for their input and suggestions. I was not aware of the South Bend book. That is a great resource.

Marty

Hello, I am looking for plans for a beginner hammer project. I have seen the plans for the Paulding Hammer and it looks like a great project, but it only requires use of the lathe. I am looking for a hammer design that: 1) incorporates use of the lathe AND mill, and 2) does not require a 4-jaw chuck...

Hello, I sent my Brown & Sharpe 6" dial caliper to LIIS for repair. That was 6 weeks ago. I have not received any word for the company and made two attempts to contact them, but to no avail. Perhaps, as it says on the website, they are just that busy! Has anyone ever used this company? Is m...

Resurrecting this post. I am looking for an answer to the original poster’s question. I don’t see it answered in the thread. Also, what about locomotives such as a Hudson or Pacific? 3/4” scale. I am considering a small layout for my yard.

Thanks,

Marty

Hello,

Does anyone have experience using any online machine tool simulators? I am looking for something students can use at home in lieu of experience on an actual machine - at least until our remote learning order has been lifted and we can go back to school in-person.

Thanks,

Marty

Hello,

Thank you for all the great suggestions. I familiar with all suggestions except the Tool and Manufacturing Engineers Handbook. I need to see if it is still in print.

Marty

Hello,

I would like to solicit some suggestions for textbooks for a high school introductory machinery (lathe & mill) course. I have a copy of Walker's Machining Fundamentals. I am interested in viewing other textbook examples.

Thanks,

Marty

Hello, I purchased a set of cylinders for my 3/4" scale A3 0-4-0 from John at Friends Models Yankee Workshop. This is my first time machining locomotive cylinders and I would like to complete the process without having to purchase another cylinder. (Sorry, John.) I searched YouTube and this for...

I would like to thank everyone for taking the time to respond to my original query. You have provided a lot of important feedback and points to consider. I have not heard an official budget number, but the administrators are aware this endeavor comes with a considerable price tag.

Marty

"Nice to see shop coming back." It has been a long time coming, but schools are finally realizing the college pathway is not for all students. There are plenty of bright students who would rather do hands-on work than attend college classes. Maybe some of us can chip in and send you some ...